THE SALVATION ARMY OF QUINCY BEGINS THE HOLIDAY SEASON WITH TREE OF LIGHTS CAMPAIGN
The Salvation Army of Quincy has begun the Christmas season with its annual Tree of Lights Christmas Kick-Off event. The kick-off luncheon was held Wednesday, November 10. The 2021 campaign chairs were introduced along with the announcement of the 2021 campaign goal. Hope Marches On is this year’s campaign theme.
Each year community leaders step up to serve as honorary chairs for the Christmas campaign, further extending the outreach and effectiveness of the efforts of The Salvation Army. The Salvation Army is pleased to announce Mandar and Laura Dighe along with their three sons, Neil, Rohan, and Sean as the 2021 Christmas Campaign Chairs. The 2021 campaign goal is $435,000.
“The mission of The Salvation Army to help those in need across the country, especially in Quincy, is special and is one our family values and supports,” said Laura. “The last few years have been challenging. So as a family, we are proud to lead the charge to make a difference for families who are struggling.”
The Salvation Amy provides a variety of programs and services to assist families in the counties of Adams, Pike, and Brown in Illinois. The following are a few examples of ways The Salvation Army has given a hand up to our neighbors in need.
The Salvation Army Emergency Shelter & Family Services provided the following assistance during this year: 492 individuals received 5,066 nights of lodging at the Emergency Shelter.
19,882 meals were provided to shelter residents.
887 food boxes were given to the community.
63 households received utility assistance.
156 renters received rent assistance.
6,674 individuals were served by the daily bread line.
185 motel vouchers were given for emergency housing.
40 individuals received rapid rehousing (moved directly from homelessness to permanent housing). 30 families graduated from the Pathway of Hope Program.
3,628 meals and 1,534 hygiene kits were distributed through the neighborhood Canteen Ministry.
Also, during the 2020 Christmas Season:
800 families received Christmas food baskets.
15,531 toys were given to children in partnership with Toys for Tots. 973 individuals were provided dinner on Thanksgiving and Christmas.
“This holiday season, let’s do our very best to help all those in need in our community,” said the Dighes. “Let’s make sure that Hope Marches On!”
Volunteers are an important part of the Christmas season and are needed to assist with many Christmas programs and activities, especially bell ringing. Please contact Jeremy Koren for more information about volunteer opportunities at 217- 231-5633 or register to ring bells at RegisterToRing.com.